An overview of Cardiac Resynchronization Therapy
Cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) is a procedure to implant a device in the chest that helps the heart's chambers contract in a more organized and efficient way. It is used to treat heart failure in individuals whose lower heart chambers (ventricles) do not contract in a coordinated fashion.
What is Cardiac Resynchronization Therapy used for?
Cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) is a treatment for heart failure in people whose lower heart chambers (ventricles) do not contract in a coordinated fashion. It is frequently used for people who have heart failure and a condition called left bundle branch block or for people who are likely to require cardiac pacing due to low heart rates. The goal of CRT is to make the heart's chambers squeeze in a more organized and efficient way, which improves the pumping of blood out of the heart. This can help reduce symptoms of heart failure and lower the risk of heart failure complications, including death.
How is Cardiac Resynchronization Therapy conducted?
Cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) is a medical procedure that involves implanting a device, usually a biventricular pacemaker, in the chest to improve the coordination and efficiency of the heart's chambers. The process typically involves an outpatient procedure and does not require general anesthesia. During the test, the healthcare provider will attach the device to the patient's chest. The device sends electrical signals to both ventricles, which helps them contract more efficiently. The healthcare provider will then monitor the patient's heart rhythm and assess the effectiveness of the therapy. In some cases, the device may also include an implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) to detect and treat dangerous heart rhythms. The test helps determine if CRT will be beneficial for the patient in managing their heart failure symptoms and reducing the risk of complications.
How are Cardiac Resynchronization Therapy results reported?
Cardiac resynchronization therapy results are typically reported based on improvements in the patient's heart function and symptoms, as well as their quality of life. Some of the key factors that are considered when evaluating the success of the therapy include:
- Reduction in heart failure symptoms: Patients may experience improvements in symptoms such as shortness of breath, fatigue, and swelling in the legs or feet.
- Improved heart function: Cardiac resynchronization therapy can help both ventricles of the heart contract more efficiently, which may lead to better overall heart function and an increase in ejection fraction (the percentage of blood the heart pumps out with each beat).
- Reduced hospitalizations: Patients who receive CRT may experience fewer hospitalizations due to heart failure.
- Quality of life: Patients may report an improvement in their overall quality of life, including their ability to perform daily activities and enjoy a better standard of living. Doctors may use various measures to assess these outcomes, such as patient questionnaires, echocardiograms, and heart rhythm monitoring. The success of cardiac resynchronization therapy is usually evaluated on an individual basis, taking into account the specific needs and health conditions of the patient.